Melbourne Victory have announced that shareholder Juan Mata has decided to end his playing career at the club.
After careful consideration, the 38-year-old — whose performances this season rank among the most impressive individual campaigns in A-Leagues history — will now focus his energy on his role within Victory's ownership group, while weighing his next career steps from his base in Europe.
The World Cup winner and reigning Johnny Warren medallist agreed to take an ownership stake in the club earlier this year, a landmark move for Australian football. That commitment will now be paired with a position as chair of Victory's newly formed football committee.
Mata joined the club in September 2025 and quickly became a key figure in the A-League Men's side, further enhancing the reputation he built during his time at Chelsea and Manchester United. He was named the best player in Australia's top domestic competition and picked up the 2026 Victory Medal, following standout performances that helped the club reach a 15th finals series and earned him a place in the PFA's Team of the Season.
Melbourne Victory director of football John Didulica said: "Juan's 2025/26 season will live long in the memory of Victory fans and should be cherished by all supporters of the world's game here in Australia. The way he performed on the pitch and the way he conducted himself around the club were both exemplary.
"We thank him for everything he delivered and were delighted that, after he chose to join Melbourne Victory, he was able to excel within the strong culture and high-performance environment established here over several years.
"Everyone at the club is excited that he is part of our ownership group and, in the future, looks forward to his football intelligence leading our football committee."
Mata himself said: "I loved every minute and so greatly enjoyed everything that we achieved last season, falling back in love with football at such a special place, in an amazing city that it was a privilege to call home.
"Thanks to my teammates, the staff and the board for welcoming me so warmly, supporting me so generously, and allowing me to give my best for this wonderful club and the amazing members and fans whose support I still feel every day.
"Now I am excited about our next chapters, believing together in the future of Australian football and inspiring the next generation of Melbourne Victory players and supporters."